updated 07:05 pm EDT, Mon April 18, 2011

App initially pulled over copyright comlaints

Grooveshark has released an unofficial Android app, sidestepping Google's recent move to ban the utility from the Android Market. The new release provides the same basic functionality as the version that was pulled from the store, enabling users to search for songs, listen to recommended content, or play tracks through an instant on-demand system.

Google did not provide any detailed insight into its reasons for removing the app from the Market, though the decision was believed to be responding to pressure from copyright holders. Opponents to the service claim it effectively works as a peer-to-peer portal for illegal sharing of copyrighted content, as users can post tracks and play music provided by others.

Grooveshark offers several premium tiers, including a $6/month option without ads. The $9/month option brings the sharing feature that appears to be the focus of criticism. [viaLifeHacker]